Iraq Holidays
Iraq Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Iraq? All public holidays in Iraq are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Iraq employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Iraq and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
Iraq, a country with a rich history and a diverse cultural heritage, observes a wide range of public holidays. These holidays reflect Iraq’s religious traditions, historical milestones, and national pride. The public holidays in Iraq are largely centered around Islamic religious events, national commemorations, and cultural celebrations. Iraq’s public holidays offer insights into the country’s values, its religious landscape, and its deep connections to its historical roots.
National Public Holidays
National public holidays in Iraq commemorate key events in the country’s modern history, including the establishment of the Iraqi state, revolutions, and significant political changes. These holidays are important markers of national identity and pride, and they are widely celebrated across the country.
Republic Day (14th July)
According to lawfaqs.net, Republic Day, celebrated on the 14th of July, marks the anniversary of the 1958 revolution that led to the overthrow of the Iraqi monarchy and the establishment of a republic. This day is a symbol of Iraq’s modern independence and national sovereignty.
Celebrations:
- Government Ceremonies: Republic Day is marked by official ceremonies in Baghdad and other major cities. The President and other political leaders typically give speeches reflecting on the revolution’s significance and Iraq’s journey toward independence.
- Military Parades: Parades are often organized to showcase Iraq’s military strength and pay tribute to the country’s defense forces. These parades include displays of military equipment and the participation of soldiers from various branches of the armed forces.
- Cultural Events: Throughout the country, people participate in cultural performances, including traditional music and dance, celebrating Iraq’s history and heritage. Public squares and parks become lively centers of activity, with families gathering to enjoy the festivities.
- Public Reflection: Republic Day is also a time for reflecting on Iraq’s struggles for independence and the country’s aspirations for peace, unity, and progress.
Independence Day (3rd October)
Iraq’s Independence Day, observed on the 3rd of October, commemorates the country’s independence from British rule in 1932. This day is a celebration of Iraq’s sovereignty and its recognition as a free nation by the League of Nations.
Traditions:
- Official Events: Government leaders and dignitaries gather for flag-raising ceremonies, speeches, and other official events to honor Iraq’s hard-fought independence.
- Patriotic Displays: The Iraqi flag is prominently displayed in public places, and citizens are encouraged to reflect on the importance of national unity and the sacrifices made for independence.
- Cultural Performances: In various cities, cultural events are organized to celebrate Iraq’s independence, with traditional songs, dances, and public gatherings being central to the day’s activities.
Army Day (6th January)
Army Day, celebrated on the 6th of January, honors the establishment of the Iraqi army in 1921. This holiday pays tribute to the men and women who serve in Iraq’s armed forces and recognizes the army’s role in defending the nation.
Key Events:
- Military Parades: Military parades are held in Baghdad and other major cities, with the Iraqi army showcasing its equipment and personnel. These parades are attended by government officials and military leaders, along with the general public.
- Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: Wreaths are laid at memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers, honoring their sacrifice for the country.
- Public Celebrations: Many Iraqis use the day to express their appreciation for the army by attending public events or participating in social media campaigns that support the military and national defense.
Religious Public Holidays
Islam is the dominant religion in Iraq, with the majority of the population being Muslim, divided primarily between Shia and Sunni sects. Iraq’s religious holidays are largely based on the Islamic lunar calendar and include significant days of observance for both sects. These holidays play a central role in the lives of Iraqis, who observe them with deep religious devotion and community participation.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most important Islamic holidays in Iraq. It marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, and is a time of celebration, gratitude, and charity.
Traditions:
- Eid Prayers: On the morning of Eid al-Fitr, Muslims gather in mosques for special prayers known as Salat al-Eid. These prayers are followed by sermons that focus on the importance of charity, gratitude, and unity.
- Charity (Zakat al-Fitr): Before the Eid prayers, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory form of charity that ensures the less fortunate can partake in the celebrations. This act of giving is central to the spirit of Eid.
- Family Gatherings: After a month of fasting, families come together for festive meals and celebrations. Traditional Iraqi dishes, including masgouf (grilled fish) and dolma (stuffed grape leaves), are prepared, and families exchange gifts.
- Visiting Relatives and Neighbors: Eid al-Fitr is also a time for visiting family and friends, sharing food, and exchanging good wishes. It fosters a sense of community and connection among relatives, friends, and neighbors.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is another major Islamic holiday in Iraq. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. This holiday is observed roughly 70 days after Eid al-Fitr and is considered one of the holiest days in Islam.
Celebrations:
- Animal Sacrifice: One of the key traditions of Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep, cow, or goat, in honor of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice. The meat is distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate.
- Prayers and Sermons: Similar to Eid al-Fitr, the day begins with special prayers at mosques, followed by sermons that reflect on the values of sacrifice, faith, and compassion.
- Acts of Charity: Charity is an essential aspect of Eid al-Adha, with many Iraqis donating food and money to the poor to ensure that everyone can participate in the celebrations.
- Feasts and Gatherings: Families come together to enjoy large feasts, sharing the sacrificial meat with loved ones and neighbors. Traditional Iraqi dishes, such as quzi (a roasted lamb dish), are commonly prepared.
Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday)
Mawlid al-Nabi is the Islamic holiday that celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is a day of religious devotion, community gatherings, and celebration in Iraq, particularly among the Shia Muslim population.
Key Traditions:
- Religious Gatherings: Mawlid al-Nabi is marked by religious gatherings where sermons are given about the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. These gatherings often include the recitation of Quranic verses and prayers.
- Community Celebrations: In some regions of Iraq, especially in Shia communities, public processions are held to honor the Prophet. These processions may include recitations of poetry and songs that praise Muhammad’s life.
- Acts of Charity and Feasting: Families often prepare large meals and distribute food to the needy, ensuring that the holiday is a time of sharing and generosity.
Ashura
Ashura is a significant day of mourning for Shia Muslims, observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram. It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Ashura is particularly important in Iraq, as Karbala is one of the holiest cities for Shia Muslims.
Observances:
- Public Mourning Processions: In cities like Karbala and Najaf, millions of Shia Muslims participate in mourning processions, reenacting the events of the Battle of Karbala. These processions often include self-flagellation, chanting, and recitations of poetry that express grief over Imam Hussein’s death.
- Lectures and Sermons: Religious leaders deliver sermons about the events of Ashura, focusing on the themes of sacrifice, justice, and the struggle against oppression.
- Acts of Charity: During Ashura, many people distribute food and water to participants in the processions, symbolizing the suffering of Imam Hussein and his followers, who were denied water during the battle.
Commemorative Days
In addition to national and religious holidays, Iraq observes several commemorative days that honor important historical figures, revolutions, and contributions to global solidarity. These days provide an opportunity for reflection on Iraq’s past and its role in the broader context of Middle Eastern and global history.
New Year’s Day (1st January)
New Year’s Day is a secular holiday observed on the 1st of January, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. Although it is not as widely celebrated as Islamic or national holidays, it is still recognized as a public holiday in Iraq.
Celebrations:
- Private Gatherings: Many Iraqis celebrate New Year’s Eve with family and friends, attending parties or gatherings at home. In some cities, public events are organized, although these are usually low-key compared to other holidays.
- Reflecting on the Year: New Year’s Day offers an opportunity for reflection on the past year’s achievements and challenges, with many Iraqis making resolutions for the year ahead.
International Workers’ Day (1st May)
International Workers’ Day, celebrated on the 1st of May, is a global holiday that honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. In Iraq, this day is observed with a focus on labor rights and social justice.
Observances:
- Public Rallies: Trade unions and labor organizations hold rallies and demonstrations to advocate for workers’ rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions.
- Speeches and Events: Government officials and labor leaders deliver speeches highlighting the importance of the labor movement and the contributions of workers to Iraq’s economy.
- Family Time: Many workers use the day off to relax with family or participate in local community events.